"I built this here in '58 and I raised six children here," said Partlow

Partlow was one of the many locals who attended Monday night's Berlin Select Board meeting to voice his opposition for turning a house just a few doors down from him into a temporary home for former inmates of the Montpelier and Greater Barre Community Justice Centers.

"The town board cries we have to check zoning. That zoning is supposed to protect me. I was on the zoning board for 20 years," said Partlow.

Yvonne Byrd, the executive director of the justice centers, said zoning rules do not apply as the house will still be used for residential purposes. The four former inmates who move in will also wear GPS locators.

The house is owned by former Berlin police chief, Bill Jennings, who couldn't be reached for comment. NewsChannel 5 did catch up with the current police chief who said he's against the move.

"I do believe there's a lack of services, the rural nature of the neighborhood, they'd be better suited in a more urban environment," said Berlin Police Chief Bill Wolfe.

"How are they going to find a job? How are they going to check in every day? They're living here, and Montpelier and Barre are way down there. How they getting there?" asked Williams.

She also said she's scared to have former inmates in a neighborhood where there are a number of kids.

"I have grandchildren, I know these people deserve a chance, but not where there's so many children around, and I'm by myself, I have no husband, I'm all alone, and I don't trust that either," said Williams.

Byrd said she expects to have a lease signed by the end of the week.

Neighbors have sent a petition with over 200 signatures to the landlord, Bill Jennings, hoping he'll have a change of heart.